International Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Open Access
ISSN: 2329-9096
ISSN: 2329-9096
Atikun Thonnagith
1873 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok
Thailand
Review Article
Ultrasound-Guided Cervical Medial Branch Blocks: A Technical Review
Author(s): Atikun Thonnagith, Maria Francisca Elgueta, Pornpan Chalermkitpanit, De QH Tran and Roderick J FinlaysonAtikun Thonnagith, Maria Francisca Elgueta, Pornpan Chalermkitpanit, De QH Tran and Roderick J Finlayson
Cervical medial branch blocks are commonly performed for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic neck pain and headaches. Although fluoroscopy constitutes the imaging standard for these procedures, recent evidence suggests that ultrasound guidance (USG) can provide similar accuracy coupled with shorter performance times. Moreover the ability to visualize soft tissue structures allows the operator to detect and avoid blood vessels, thus reducing complications related to vascular breach. In this review article, we discussed the technical considerations and evidence supporting the use of USG for cervical medial branch and third occipital nerve blocks... View More»
DOI:
10.4172/2329-9096.1000329